Ovarian cysts

Alternative names:

functional ovarian cysts; physiological ovarian cysts

Symptoms:

• abnormal uterine bleeding (change from normal menstrual pattern)
  • lengthened menstrual cycle (or)
  • shortened menstrual cycle (or)
  • menstruation, absent
  • irregular menstruation

• pelvic pain, constant, dull aching
• pain with intercourse or pelvic pain during movement
• pelvic pain shortly after beginning (onset) or ending (cessation) of menses
• nausea/vomiting or breast tenderness, like that associated with pregnancy

Prolonged symptoms which may be associated with polycystic ovarian disease include:

• abnormally light or lack of menstrual periods
• infertility
• obesity
• abdomen, swollen
• abdominal mass
• hirsutism (increased growth of body hair, distributed in a "male pattern")

Note: Often no symptoms are noted.

Signs and tests:

A pelvic examination may reveal an ovarian enlargement or a mass.

A serum HCG (pregnancy test) may be done to rule out pregnancy.

Hormonal level tests may be ordered:

• An FSH - follicle stimulating hormone
• An LH - luteinizing hormone; estrogen
• pregnanediol

Ultrasound can detect the cyst(s).

Laparoscopy may be necessary if a cyst is revealed that is larger than 6 cm. or that persists for longer than 6 weeks.